NOAA Satellite Image of Hurricane Katrina as it Makes Landfall in Louisiana on August 29, 2005
The official Atlantic hurricane season runs from June through November. However, storms do sometimes form outside of this period. During the regular season, it is not uncommon for high-risk cities to experience significant damage — and across the United States, hurricanes cost billions in losses.
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina caused $101.9 billion in 2023 dollars (adjusting for inflation). Sadly, the impact of natural disasters on businesses can be immense. Up to 40% of small businesses won’t reopen — within three years, those without a continuity plan will fail.
Hurricane power outages are a concern for businesses because they can cause physical damage, disrupt operations, threaten security, and damage a company’s reputation.
Does your business have a backup power system in place? If not, here’s what to consider.
Brace for an Active Hurricane Season in 2024
Experts estimate that the 2024 hurricane season will bring an above-normal amount of activity. According to NOAA National Weather Service forecasters, an 85% chance of an above-normal season exists.
As a business, you must prepare for these extreme weather events and ensure you remain operational — especially if you’re in certain industries, like healthcare, government, or manufacturing. Even just minutes of downtime could lead to significant financial losses or security concerns.
The government provides tools to assess your neighborhood’s vulnerability, which can help you plan. However, the most effective proactive solution is to invest in backup power solutions tailored to your business’s needs and requirements.
Related: Backup Power Solutions for this Summer’s Extreme Weather Forecast
Other equipment and solutions include:
- A complete backup power system including an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is critical for businesses that cannot afford downtime — such as hospitals, data centers, manufacturing facilities, etc. Learn how GPS assisted a New Mexico casino by providing a pre-owned UPS system in just four days.
- An automatic transfer switch is highly beneficial when investing in a generator, as it automates the transition from one power source to another (most commonly, the grid to a generator).
- If you invest in a hybrid solution that uses renewables and backup generators, battery energy storage solutions are an option.
In addition, comprehensive backup power systems require a team of designers, engineers, and installation experts to ensure ongoing success. GPS offers turnkey solutions that include site surveys, power system design and engineering, equipment supply, on-site construction, post-installation maintenance, and more.
If you are seeking rentals to ensure business continuity, we stock diesel and natural gas generators, UPS power system trailers, precision cooling systems, standard indoor UPS systems, and additional critical power equipment — all available to rent.
It’s Never Too Early to Invest in Backup Power
The best time to implement a backup power system is outside of peak hurricane season. While you may think it’s easy to find a commercial generator quickly, the average lead time is several weeks to several months — especially during hurricane season. So, if you don’t have a backup power solution in place, you could be left in the dark.
GPS is known for fast turnarounds, significantly reducing wait times based on extensive in-stock inventory. So, while you can likely source a generator quickly from GPS, depending on the project’s scope, you’ll want to begin the process as soon as possible.
The hurricane season has begun, and in the coming years, these seasons’ severity and duration could worsen. A backup power system installed before you need it will provide the peace of mind you need as a business owner in today’s competitive landscape.
GPS Is Here to Support You This Hurricane Season and Beyond
This upcoming hurricane season, GPS is here to assist you.
Now is the time to take the necessary precautions, prepare your business, and communicate with employers, suppliers, and customers concerning a “what if” scenario.
Here are some suggestions:
- Know the risks in your area, and implement hurricane season preparation accordingly. For example, are you subject to flooding? If so, source sandbags and other supplies to protect your property.
- Ensure any important paperwork is sealed and, if possible, stored off-site during the hurricane season.
- Source all necessary emergency supplies, including tool kits, blankets, first aid kits, water, non-perishable foods, etc.
For all your power supply needs, GPS can help you ensure the execution of your business continuity plan. GPS specializes in all things related to reliable power for businesses and will help you develop a hurricane emergency power system.
Not sure where to begin or what equipment you need? Contact us — we’ll be happy to help you design and install business backup power solutions you can count on.